Catevala arachnoidea (L.) Medik.
Cobweb haworthia
Catevala arachnoidea, synonym of Haworthia arachnoidea (L.) Duval, is known as the 'cobweb haworthia' for the translucent white bristles that border its leaves, creating a spider-web visual effect. It is one of the most popular and recognizable species of the genus, highly prized in succulent collections.
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© Winfried Bruenken (Amrum) / Wikimedia Commons
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Catevala |
| Growth Habit | Globose to flat acaulescent rosette, 5–10 cm in diameter; produces basal offsets. |
| Conservation Status | Not threatened. Widely cultivated in specialist nurseries worldwide. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Very porous mix: 40% cactus substrate + 40% perlite + 20% coarse quartz sand. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Triangular to lanceolate leaves 3–6 cm, light to medium green, with numerous translucent white bristles (setae) on the margin and apex that simulate a cobweb.
ecoWhite to cream tubular flowers with greenish nerves on scapes 20–30 cm. Autumn-winter flowering.
ecoAcaulescent; compact rosette at ground level.
ecoWhite fleshy roots with moderate water storage capacity.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Very porous mix: 40% cactus substrate + 40% perlite + 20% coarse quartz sand.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate rooted offsets in spring.
- 2 Let cut dry 2 days.
- 3 Plant in porous substrate and water after one week.
Always water from the base to avoid wetting the delicate bristles.
Wetting white bristles from above; moisture causes rot.
Every 3–4 years; handle carefully to avoid damaging bristles.
Very diluted succulent fertilizer (1/4 dose), once in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats.
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Plant Health
Mealybugs among bristles; difficult to detect; inspect with a magnifier.
Rot at rosette center if water gets trapped among the bristles.
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"Catevala arachnoidea corresponds to Haworthia arachnoidea (L.) Duval. The marginal bristles are modified epidermal trichomes that in the habitat help capture coastal Cape fog, providing additional moisture to the plant."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.